BEC Wishes You a Happy Year of the Monkey
Chinese New Year is just around the corner. We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of you a happy, prosperous, and healthy Year of the Monkey!
BEC Monthly Features
BEC Policy Dialogue Series: 2016 Policy Address
18 January 2016: Part I - Dialogue with the Secretary for the Environment
20 January 2016: Part II - Dialogue with the Under Secretary for Development
Following the release of the Chief Executive’s 2016 Policy Address on 13 January, BEC organised two BEC Policy Dialogue Series events aiming to offer a platform for BEC members to understand more about the policy direction and express views from the perspective of business sector.
In the Part I event on 18 January, Mr KS Wong, JP, Secretary for the Environment, met with BEC members to provide first hand updates on the policies related to environmental protection and conservation set out in the 2016 Policy Address. He also joined a panel discussion with BEC Chairman and Board Directors to discuss various environmental and sustainability related topics.
In the Part II event on 20 January, Mr Eric Ma, Under Secretary for Development, elaborated policies under the purview of the Development Bureau in the 2016 Policy Address. Hong Kong Green Building Council (“HKGBC”) and BEAM Society Limited (“BSL”) were the co-organisers of the event. Mr Ma joined BEC Chairman and Board Directors as well as representatives of HKGBC and BSL in a panel discussion, and exchanged views on the policies.
Dialogue with the Secretary for the Environment
Dialogue with the Under Secretary for Development
BEC Upcoming Events
1 February 2016: BEC Policy Dialogue Series: Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan - Dialogue with the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation
The Hong Kong SAR Government launched a three-month Public Consultation on the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (“BSAP”) on 8 January 2016. In preparing the BSAP for Hong Kong, the Government examines the existing condition of biodiversity and practices for its conservation in Hong Kong, and identifies any additional work needed to be undertaken, taking into account objectives and principles of the Convention on Biological Diversity, as well as local needs and priorities.
Dr. Leung Siu-fai, Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, will meet with BEC members on 1 February 2016 to introduce the Government’s BSAP consultation and collect views from members, followed by panel discussion and Q&A session.
For registration and enquiry, please contact Ms Jill Chow (T. 2784 3942 | E. jill@bec.org.hk).
19 February 2016: BEC Spring Dinner
In the festive month of Chinese New Year, BEC will host its Spring Dinner at The Banqueting House, Tsimshatsui on 19 February 2016. BEC is pleased to have Mr Wong Hon-meng, Assistant Director (Waste Reduction and Recycling) of Environmental Protection Department, to share the latest progress of Hong Kong's waste management development and present the Government’s waste reduction initiatives in coming years. He will also talk about how the business sector could seize opportunities and collaborate on waste reduction and recycling efforts. Details of the Dinner are available on BEC website (http://bec.org.hk/events-current/bec-spring-dinner-2016).
The Dinner provides an opportunity for members to meet and network with business executives, as well as celebrate the Chinese New Year together. For registration, please contact Ms Joey Hui (T. 2784 3958 | E. joey@bec.org.hk).
24 February 2016: BEC Heritage Tour at Tai O
Tai O Heritage Hotel, formerly as the Tai O Police Station, is a Grade II historic building and was revitalised and converted into a boutique hotel in 2012. While conserving its colonial-style construction, some modern environmentally-friendly features are also added in the hotel.
In this tour, participants will be able to learn more about the stories of the building. Participants will also understand how the hotel engages the public in bolstering Tai O’s local economy to achieve synergy with the local community, and promote heritage conservation and sustainable tourism.
For registration and enquiry, please contact Ms Amy Ma (T. 2784 3960 | E. amy@bec.org.hk).
25 February 2016: BEC Leadership Networking Series
In the upcoming event, Mr KK Wu, General Manager of DEOS China Limited, will deliver a presentation on reducing energy consumption of ventilation system in a building. Details of the event will soon be available on BEC website. For enquiry, please contact Ms Jill Chow (T. 2784 3942 | E. jill@bec.org.hk).
BEC News
BEC Participated in the Environment Bureau’s Charter on External Lighting
On 11 January 2016, BEC attended the launching ceremony of the Environment Bureau’s Charter on External Lighting (the “Charter”). The Charter, aiming to help minimise light nuisance and energy wastage problems that may be caused by external lighting installations in Hong Kong, will commence in April this year. As one of the signatories of the Charter, BEC pledged to switch off lighting installations with decorative, promotional or advertising purposes which affect the outdoor environment during the preset times.
Launch of a Public Consultation on Electronic Road Pricing Pilot Scheme
The Hong Kong SAR Government has launched a three-month consultation on an Electronic Road Pricing (“ERP”) Pilot Scheme for Central and its adjacent areas. In addition, the Government will conduct a feasibility study focusing on the road pricing charging area, period, mechanism, level, exemptions and technology, after collecting views during the consultation period. The consultation will end on 18 March 2016. For more information, please visit the website on the ERP Pilot Scheme (http://www.erphk.hk/en/home/index.html).
BEC has collected views from members of BEC Transport and Logistics Advisory Group and is preparing our policy submission on the ERP pilot scheme. A draft policy submission will be circulated to all BEC members for comment in due course.
BEC Past Events
22 January 2016: BEC Industry Visit to Hong Kong Observatory
Participants learned about a full range of services provided by the Observatory, including weather, climate and public education. Participants also visited the historical building to understand the history and development of the Observatory over the years.
25 January 2016: Staying Ahead: Responding to Increasing ESG Disclosure Requirements
In December 2015, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange has decided to upgrade the disclosure requirements of its Environmental, Social and Governance Reporting Guide (the “ESG Guide”) in its Listing Rules. Effective for issuers’ financial years commencing on 1 January 2016, companies are required to state in their annual reports or ESG reports whether they have complied with the "comply or explain" provisions set out in the ESG Guide. In regard to this, BEC organised a seminar to discuss implications of changes of the ESG disclosure requirements to businesses in Hong Kong.
Ms Ellie Pang, Vice President of the Listing Department of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange talked about updates to the Exchange’s ESG Reporting Guide. Ms Wendy Yung, Founder of Practising Governance, shared experience and insights on the key tasks for ESG reporting cycle, including the setting up of relevant ESG strategies and policies applicable at a board level.
28 January 2016: BEC Leadership Networking Series
Mr Mike Kilburn, Acting General Manager – Sustainability of Airport Authority Hong Kong, gave an overview of the Hong Kong International Airport Carbon Reduction Programme, its latest status and way forward. He also talked about the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement and its applicability to other multi-tenant facilities and properties. Mr Dennis Hui, Environment, Health & Safety Manager of Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited, talked about the company’s environmental initiatives on reducing carbon emission.
BEC Partnership Programmes
BEC Biodiversity Ambassador Training Programme: Marine Biodiversity Conservation
In October 2015, BEC initiated its first advocacy programme on biodiversity conservation, titled “BEC Biodiversity Ambassador Training Programme: Marine Biodiversity Conservation”. The Programme is funded by the Environment and Conservation Fund and the Environmental Campaign Committee, and with the support from the Ocean Park Conservation Fund Hong Kong (“OPCFHK”).
During November 2015 to February 2016, BEC and OPCFHK conduct talks on marine biodiversity conservation for secondary schools. The talks cover topics on the importance of the ocean, human impacts, Hong Kong’s marine biodiversity, Hong Kong’s marine debris issues and actions to be taken to protect the ocean.
In the meantime, BEC members are welcome to take part in various activities under the Programme. For more information, please contact Ms Sylvia Mok (T. 2784 3941 | E. biodiversity@bec.org.hk) or visit BEC website (http://bec.org.hk/our-professional-services/bec-biodiversity-ambassador-training-programme-marine-biodiversity-conservation).
Disclaimer: Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material/event do not necessarily reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Environment and Conservation Fund and Environmental Campaign Committee.
BEC Low-carbon School – Eco Expo Asia 2015 – Inter-school Low-carbon Living Micro-film Competition
BEC is organising the “Inter-school Low-carbon Living Micro-film Competition”, one of the major activities under “BEC Low-carbon School – Eco Expo Asia 2015” programme, which is funded by the Environment and Conservation Fund and the Environmental Campaign Committee.
The Competition is open for registration until 8 March 2016. Local secondary schools are invited to submit micro-films with the theme of how to practise low-carbon lifestyle in campus. For more information, please contact Ms Joanne Chan (T. 2784 3975 | E. bec.lcs@bec.org.hk).
Disclaimer: Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material/event do not necessarily reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Environment and Conservation Fund and Environmental Campaign Committee.
Information for BEC Members
Public Consultation on Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (“AFCD”) has launched a public consultation on Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (“BSAP”) for Hong Kong. Apart from the BEC Dialogue Series event to be held on 1 February 2016, AFCD also organises public engagement activities on the BSAP. AFCD invites BEC members to attend the public consultation sessions, which details are shown as below:
| Date | Time | Venue | Language |
| 11 March 2016 (Friday) | 3:00pm – 5:00pm | Room 701, 7th Floor, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong | Cantonese |
| 18 March 2016 (Friday) | English |
For registration to the above consultation sessions, please contact Mr Felix Chan of AFCD (T. 2150 7189 | E. felix_hp_chan@afcd.gov.hk). Other relevant information about the public consultation is available at AFCD website (http://www.afcd.gov.hk/bsap).
Free Vehicle Emission Measurement
BEC members are invited to participate in free-of-charge vehicle emission and fuel consumption tests to be held on every Saturday and Sunday from 22 January 2016 onward, with limited quotas available.
Environmental Protection Department has commissioned Environmental Technology Consultants Ltd to conduct measurement on emission level and fuel consumption for petrol and LPG vehicles in Hong Kong. This project aims to enhance the awareness of vehicle users on air quality, vehicle emission and fuel consumption. Each test will take 5 – 10 minutes. Participants will receive a test report and a $50 fuel coupon after the test.
For enquiry or to make a booking, please contact Mr Lau or Mr So of Environmental Technology Consultants Ltd (T. 2264 2299).
Services for BEC Members and Companies
Venue Hire at BEC Headquarters
To facilitate the sharing of knowledge and best practices, venues and facilities at BEC Headquarters are available for members and companies for organising events relating to environmental protection and sustainability. To know more about the rates and other details, please visit BEC website (http://bec.org.hk/files/images/aboutus/Office_location/BEC_Venue_Rate _Card_August2015.pdf) or contact BEC Events and Communications Team (T. 2784 3942 | E. venue@bec.org.hk).
Green Technology Corner – Showcase at BEC Headquarters
The Green Technology Corner at BEC Headquarters offers opportunities for members to showcase their green technologies and products to business leaders and sustainability professionals. Please contact Ms Bonnie Ho (T. 2787 3951 | E. bonnie@bec.org.hk) to secure the showcasing opportunity.
BEC IEE Training Courses
BEC Institute for Environmental Education ("BEC IEE") will organise various environmental training courses during February to March 2016 as follows:
Best Practices for Waste Reduction and Management in Hong Kong (2nd Intake) (25 February 2016) – This 6-hour course provides an overview of waste reduction and management in Hong Kong and reviews the roles that businesses and individuals can play in waste management and reduction. This course is jointly supported by Environmental Division of The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, Hong Kong Waste and Management Association and the Hong Kong Institute of Facility Management.
Towards Sustainability – Sustainable Building Management (2nd Intake) (18 March 2016) – Effective sustainable property management practices is essential for both new and existing buildings in order maximise energy and water use efficiency. This course provides the participants with up-to-date information and the best practices for managing the property.
Visit BEC website now for outlines and schedules of BEC IEE courses. Please contact Dr Veronica Chan (T. 2784 3937 | E. beciee@bec.org.hk) for registration and enquiry.
BEC Members Corner
Hang Lung Properties’ Riverside 66 Wins Two Recognitions in Prestigious MIPIM Asia Awards
Hang Lung’s landmark project in Tianjin, Riverside 66, has garnered the Gold Awards in the categories of “Best Innovative Green Building” and “Best Retail Development” in the MIPIM Asia Awards 2015 as recognition of Hang Lung’s dedication to the highest standards in architectural design while at the same time incorporating a full range of green initiatives.
Riverside 66 is a showcase of Hang Lung’s commitment to developing sustainable buildings. Green measures such as the building envelope design, the use of a heat recovery system and energy-efficient lighting allow the mall to minimise its operational impact on the surrounding environment. Hang Lung has also invested generously in preserving the century-old building, Zhejiang Xingye Bank, situated at the southeast corner of the mall. Riverside 66 was also awarded the Gold Certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Core and Shell Development by the U.S. Green Building Council.
To know more about Riverside 66, please visit http://www.riverside66.com/zh-cn/Default.
OOIL Becomes a FTSE4Good Global Index Constituent
Orient Overseas (International) Limited (“OOIL”), the parent company of Orient Overseas Container Line (“OOCL”), is pleased to announce its inclusion in the FTSE4Good Global Index (“Index”).
The FTSE4Good Index Series is one of the world’s most recognised and respected indices measuring the performance of companies demonstrating strong Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) standards for investors committed to socially responsible investments.
OOIL is honoured to be the first Hong Kong-based enterprise in the international transportation and logistics industry to be included in the Index. Independently assessed according to the Index criteria, OOIL has met all ESG requirements to become a constituent of the Index following the December 2015 review, an important milestone in the company’s efforts to achieving long-term sustainability objectives.
"BEC Members Corner" is dedicated to BEC members for the purpose of introducing their recent achievements, success stories, innovative ideas or solutions on environmental sustainability. Members are invited to provide us with an English write-up with about 120 words, which BEC reserves the rights of editing and publishing. The submission deadline for the next E-newsletter is 24 February 2016 (Wednesday).
Please contact Ms Joey Hui (T. 2784 3958 | E. joey@bec.org.hk) if you are interested in contributing an article.
BEC Members Update
Please join us in welcoming the following new members:
General Members
Geb Impact Technology Company Limited
Netsphere Solution Limited
Active Energy Management Limited
BEC Supporting Events
| Date | Event | Organiser |
| 1 December 2015 – 28 February 2017 | Smart City Campaign | Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation |
| December 2015 – February 2016 | 2015-16 Hong Kong & Shenzhen Bi-City Biennale of Urbanism/ Architecture (Hong Kong) | The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Biennale Foundation, The Hong Kong Institute of Architects, Hong Kong Institute of Planners, Hong Kong Designers Association, Shenzhen Biennale of Urbanism/ Architecture Organising Committee |
| 28 – 31 January 2016 | Education & Careers Expo | Hong Kong Trade Development Council |
| 17 February 2016 | HKGBC Recognition Scheme Award Presentation Ceremony | Hong Kong Green Building Council |
| 29 February 2016 | Technical Seminar on International Approaches for Indoor Environment and Energy Use Reduction | ASHRAE Hong Kong Chapter BEAM Society Limited |
| 5 March 2015 | Career Expo 2016@Science Park | Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation |
| 31 March – 2 April 2016 | Macao International Environmental Co-operation Forum & Exhibition (2016 MIECF) | Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China |
| 8 April 2016 | Technical Seminar on Building Energy Simulation – Trends, Technologies and Applications | ASHRAE Hong Kong Chapter |
| 15 April 2016 | ICE HKA Annual Conference 2016: Sustainable and Resilient Coastal Management Mitigating and Adapting to Climate Change | Institution of Civil Engineers Hong Kong Association |
| 18 April 2016 | The HKIE Environmental Division Annual Forum | The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers Environmental Division |
| 22 April 2016 | Urban Design Conference 2016 – “Betterment of the City” | The Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design |
| 5 – 7 May 2016 | IE Expo 2016 Hong Kong Pavilion | Environmental Protection Department of Hong Kong SAR Goverment |
| 20 May 2016 | Annual Corporate and Regulatory Update (ACRU) 2016 | The Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Secretaries |
| 2015 – 2016 | Environmental Education Creative Competition 2015 | Graphic Arts Association of Hong Kong |
| 2015 – 2016 | The 6th Hong Kong Corporate Citizenship Program | Hong Kong Productivity Council |
| 2014 – onward | Water Supplies Department, Hong Kong SAR Government | |
| 2014 – onward | HSBC Water Programme for Industrial Water Management | Hong Kong Productivity Council |